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While locals were adamant that the attack was carried out by illegal poachers, the state's Forest Minster told NDTVthat it was a case of two male elephants fighting.

The case bears similarities to attacks in the region's Kaziranga National Park, where rhinos have had their horns removed while still alive, before bleeding to death.

At risk: The number of deaths at the hands of poachers has risen due to an increased demand for ivory in Asia. Rhinos were attacked in Kaziranga National Park, Assam, recently, where these elephants were pictured (stock image)

Authorities said that automatic weapons had been used to kill the animals.

Poaching deaths have risen in recent years due to an increased demand for rhino horn and ivory in Asian countries.

India's location and array of wildlife makes it particularly susceptible to poachers who can easily export the goods.

An operation is currently ongoing in the nearby Karbi Anglong hills, in which several poachers have been arrested. The poachers are thought to have links with traders in Nagaland and Burma.